Tamunosoye Karibi-George, Bayelsa’s representative, has emerged as the winner of the Miss World Nigeria 2026 pageant. She edged out 20 finalists to clinch the highly coveted crown at the grand finale of the pageant held over the weekend  in Lagos.

The competition, themed ‘Pride, Power, and Purpose’, included contestants from across the country and featured talent showcase, interview, and evening wear rounds.

With the victory, the 26-year-old Queen ,from Port Harcourt, Rivers, will represent Nigeria at the 73rd Miss World Festival scheduled to hold in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August  9 to September 5.

Joy Raimi, Miss World Nigeria 2025, represented Nigeria at the 72nd Miss World pageant in Hyderabad, India, where she reached the Top 20 and placed among the Top 5 from Africa.

Silverbird Group founder and former lawmaker representing Bayelsa East, Ben Murray-Bruce, who celebrated the win, described Ms Karibi-George as “more than a queen”.

“We have a queen! A new chapter begins. Please join us in celebrating Tamunosoye Karibi-George, representing Bayelsa state, as the newly crowned Miss World Nigeria 2026!” stated Mr Murray-Bruce.

He highlighted her advocacy work through the Beyond Labels initiative, which focuses on inclusion, dignity, and empowerment for children with special needs.

Miss World Nigeria, organised by the Silverbird Group, is one of Nigeria’s premier beauty pageants.

The pageant selects Nigeria’s representative for the international Miss World competition. 

(NAN)